In this file photo, Muñeka Taisipic runs the ball for the Notre Dame Royals against the GW Geckos in an Independent Interscholastic Athletic Association of Guam/Guam Rugby Football Union High School Rugby League Girls tackle game. PDN file photo

In this file photo, the Notre Dame Royals' Muneka Taisipic looks for an angle through Guam High Panthers defenders during an Independent Interscholastic Athletic Association of Guam Girls Volleyball League game. PDN file photo

In this file photo, the Notre Dame Royals' Muneka Taisipic slams one over the net during an Independent Interscholastic Athletic Association of Guam Girls Volleyball League game against the Guam High School Panthers. PDN file photo

Answer: I graduated Notre Dame High School and I’m currently attending the University of Guam, studying pre-physical therapy.

Q: Why did you choose physical therapy?

A: My physical therapist inspired me. In high school I played a lot of sports — rugby, volleyball and paddling. I’ve been injured quite a few times. I’ve broken my hand while trying softball for the first time. It was a hairline fracture to my index finger. I tore my medial collateral ligament during rugby. Both required physical therapy. I spent a month in PT for my MCL.

Q: How did you get introduced into pageantry?

A: I was asked by many people to join many different pageants. But Miss Universe Guam was very encouraging. They finally convinced me to try out one of the rehearsals. I ended up liking it. This experience has made me develop into a better person.

Q: How does this tie in with your career as a physical therapist?

A: Communication skills play a big role as a therapist. You need to understand and, more importantly, listen to patient’s problems, what they injured and what’s painful and what’s not. If you’re just assuming, you may treat the wrong issue. It helps you bond with the patient as well.

Q: What is your recommendation to future pageant contestants?

A: Don’t take anything for granted during your journey to the crown. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, and not everyone can experience something like this. The events that you go to, the opportunities that are given to you, it might never happen again.